Why You Should Work With A Business Attorney From The Start
Starting a business is exciting, fun, scary, and a lot of hard work. In most cases, it is quite possible to get things rolling without the help of a business attorney. Of course, it never hurts to have one go over your business plan, advise on permits, licenses, and insurance needed, and make sure any contracts you sign for a location or supplies are in your best interest. In addition, when you work with a lawyer, they become familiar with you and your business. This can be beneficial if you find you do need an attorney in the future. Here are a few reasons you may find yourself in this situation.
Employee Problems
An employee can become disgruntled with the job and the way they feel they are being treated at work. This may be a payroll dispute, some type of imagined discrimination, or a wrongful termination issue. Any time you have an employee wanting to sue you or one who is creating problems in the workplace you should contact a business lawyer to look over the case and advise you on how to proceed. If the situation ends up in court, the attorney will work to ensure things come out in your favor.
Liability Issues
While you will have the proper liability insurance coverages to protect you financially, things are not always as cut and dry as paying a settlement. A lawyer should be utilized so you do not end up paying a larger settlement than needed. The attorney will work with the insurance company and help to keep any payments down if they cannot prove there is no need for the case. This not only keeps your insurance premiums down but also keeps your business record from showing you are not a responsible business owner.
Intellectual Property Problems
Intellectual property can involve trademarks, patents, slogans, and copyrights. It can be very hard to ensure you are not violating someone else's rights. You may not be aware you are using a slogan someone else has used and trademarked. It is also possible that someone else may inadvertently infringe upon something that is actually "owned" by you. A business attorney will search and look for intellectual property rights for you before you can get into trouble. They will also advise someone who infringes on your property that they need to stop.
When you first start your business, find a lawyer you feel will work well with your company. Give them the basics of your business, and create a relationship with them. Then, when you really need them, they will know how to handle things to your benefit.
Contact a business lawyer for more information.